Commuters break out bikes to save money, get fit

With gas prices still high, many people are looking for ways to drive as little as possible.

For some, the solution is simply biking to work.

Owners of two local shops have seen an increase in commuter bike sales, but not necessarily a drastic one and not primarily because of gas prices.

“I don’t know if there is a direct correlation between gas prices or people just getting more active,” said Steve Blackman, owner of the Caffeinated Cyclist in Pitman. “Some cyclists who started biking as a hobby are actually doing it to commute as well. More people are buying commuter-style bikes with racks so they can bring their stuff to work.”

The Peddler’s Shop in Deptford has seen a small increase in commuter bike sales as well, but much more so for repair work.

Owner Chris Foster said, “There has been a large increase in repairs, mainly older bikes that people haven’t used in a while. A lot of people are riding to the train station, and they are more comfortable with leaving their old bikes out there.”

There are a number of positive benefits to commuting via bicycle for those who have the option. Not only the savings, but the fitness aspect is hugely beneficial. Biking can also be a relatively inexpensive hobby that families can enjoy together, suggested Foster.

Across the Delaware and into the urban streets of Philadelphia, biking to work is easier than pedaling across rural roads and neighborhood lanes in the county.

“Over the past year or two, a lot more people are commuting by bike as an alternative to the train or the trolley,” said Gary Peltack of Bicycle Revolutions in Philadelphia.

He added that biking eliminates one big frustration: parking.

Is the increase because of gas prices?

“There is a correlation (between gas prices and bike sales) to a degree. You can save money on your commute, so it’s a feasible option. The city itself is making itself more commuter friendly,” Petlack said of the city’s addition of more biking lanes.

Businesses also seem to be making commuting via bike easier by providing “biking rooms” for employees who ride to work, and allowing them to bike for deliveries, too.

“People are trying to use bikes in business packages,” said Steve Bilenky, owner of Bilenky Cycle Works in Philadelphia. “The gas prices are just a capper. It’s a regional continuation of going green.”